Will Smith Releases First Album in 20 Years, “Based on a True Story”

Will Smith returns with “Based on a True Story”, featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor & global tour.

Photo Credit: Elliott Muscat

Will Smith returns to music with Based on a True Story, his first full-length album in two decades, out now via RITW/SLANG Recordings. More than a comeback, the 14-track release reflects Smith’s evolution—an honest, genre-crossing journey told through personal narratives and bold collaborations.

Among the featured guests are longtime friend and collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff, as well as Teyana Taylor and Jac Ross. The album includes the previously released singles “First Love,” “Beautiful Scars,” “TANTRUM,” “Work of Art,” and the gospel-inspired “You Can Make It,” which recently reached No.1 on the Billboard Gospel Airplay Chart.

To coincide with the album release, Smith also announced his first-ever headlining run—the Based on a True Story Summer Tour. The trek begins July 13 in Hamburg, Germany, and includes festival appearances across Morocco, France, Spain, and Italy, including Mawazine and Dreambeach.

Earlier this week, Smith celebrated a full-circle moment when the street outside Overbrook High School—his alma mater in Philadelphia—was renamed Will Smith Way, a tribute to his cultural impact.

“You Can Make It,” featuring Fridayy and Sunday Service Choir, made headlines following a powerful performance at the 2024 BET Awards, where Smith delivered the track while standing in a fire pit surrounded by real flames.

Having recently appeared at the 2025 GRAMMY Awards to present a tribute to Quincy Jones, Smith continues to bridge eras and audiences. Based on a True Story marks the latest chapter in a career built on reinvention, resilience, and global resonance.